Supplemental Security Income helps disabled people support themselves

Supplement Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement that provides critical support to people who have a disability and little or no income. Sometimes known simply as “disability,” the program is meant to provide for food, clothing and shelter for those who cannot afford it because of a medical problem or infirmity. It is different from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which provides compensation to those who have paid social security taxes and are now unable to work due to injury. Matt Lewis Law, P.C. works with clients in Dallas and beyond to get them the SSI or SSDI benefits they need. If you are unsure of the requirements or have been denied eligibility, we can help.

Am I eligible for SSI or SSDI disability benefits?

SSI should not to be confused with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which also provides benefits to help you pay your bills when you are unable to work or have reduced earning capacity. SSDI, however, provides benefits only if you have paid Social Security taxes for a specified period of time.

You may be eligible for SSI benefits if you have limited income and you are a U.S. citizen who is blind, disabled, or 65 or older. People who are disabled can qualify for benefits regardless of their age if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

An injury or impairment prevents you from doing any substantial gainful activity — In other words, if you can no longer earn a living, you may qualify.

The injury can be expected to result in death —A person with a disease or a condition that is likely to cause death may be eligible for benefits.

The condition has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months — A temporary medical condition from which you are likely to recover in less than a year does not constitute a disability for SSI or SSDI purposes.

You should considering applying for SSI or SSDI benefits if you have been out of work for six months or more. SSI and SSDI benefits are intended for those with significant impairments, and it does not matter if the cause was a construction accident, car crash or a genetic disease. Speak to one of our lawyers about the disability process if you think you meet the eligibility requirements or have been denied benefits.

Attorneys help you appeal an unfavorable SSI or SSDI decision

If your SSI or SSDI claim has been denied, you can appeal. There are several appeals:

Reconsideration — Reconsideration is a full review of your case file by a Social Security officer who was not involved in the initial decision.

A hearing before an administrative law judge —If you do not receive the desired result after reconsideration, your case can be heard by an administrative law judge at a formal hearing.

Review by the Appeals Council — An Appeals Council reviews the decision of the administrative law judge and can decide the case or return it to the judge for additional review.

Review in federal court — You may file a lawsuit in federal court if you are not successful at the Appeals Council level.

Our firm is prepared to work with you through every step of the process. Speak with us to find out more.

Contact us for a free consultation on benefits

Matt Lewis Law, P.C. fights to get clients the benefits they need. Schedule a free initial consultation with one of our attorneys online or by calling 972-961-4467.

Matt Lewis Law, P.C. is located in Dallas, Tx and serves clients in and around Dallas, Irving, Richardson, Mesquite, Fort Worth and both Tarrant County and Dallas County.

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